There is a movie script in every mother’s mind when she finds out about her pregnancy: the desire for the pregnancy to be as peaceful as possible and that, after birth, breastfeeding is a special moment in which the bond between mother and baby it just gets stronger, as you see in the movies. This script is romanticized in many cases without taking into account real-life difficulties.
As we show in this article, childbirth is surrounded by anxiety, and for many mothers, it is difficult to deal with. After that, the adaptations necessary for the first three months of the baby’s life appear, completely changing the couple’s routine, making the baby the center of attention, and meeting all their needs.
Breastfeeding is the wisest natural strategy for bonding, affection, protection, and nutrition for the child and constitutes the most sensitive, economical, and effective intervention for reducing child morbidity and mortality. It also allows for a great impact in promoting the integral health of the mother/baby duo.
In some cases, however, there is a need to use an infant formula milk for several reasons. This does not mean that the baby’s childhood will be compromised or that a woman is less of a mother. Some factors usually weigh in at this time, which include:
- Little milk
- Pain from cracked breasts, full breasts, accumulation of milk in the breasts, and the baby’s grip can lead to numerous discomforts for the mother.
- Lack of information and lack of support
- Inverted nipple
- Premature babies, and many more
Table of Contents
But What Are Formulas?
The formula is an “artificial milk, which has its nutrients modified by industries (in this way it is not found in nature), based mainly on the milk of cow or goat, found for consumption in liquid or powdered form and that should be prescribed only in necessary cases, by doctors or nutritionists” according to experts at Babysbestfood.
It is necessary to have the guidance of the pediatrician to know which is the most recommended composition, and its quantity, among other points. Formula milk undergoes numerous modifications to try to reproduce breast milk in the best way. Some examples of the ones established to produce breast milk include the Holle goat milk formula, available in stages according to the child’s age.
What Are the Differences: Breast Milk vs. Formula Milk?
No wonder the recommendations are for breast milk to be the only source of food for babies up to six months. See the differences in composition between them:
Breast Milk
It’s not just food, as it has numerous other functions: boosting immunity, helping with development, and reducing the likelihood of illness, among other benefits.
- Antibodies and enzymes, which help protect against diseases and develop immunity;
- Hormones contribute to regulating appetite;
- Stem cells, in support of organ development and repair;
- White blood cells, in the fight against infections;
- Beneficial bacteria which protect the digestive system;
- Fatty acids, one of the substances responsible for the development of the nervous system and eyes;
- Hormones help create a healthy sleep pattern.
Milk Formula
Before going to the ingredients themselves, it is necessary to know that there are several types of formula milk (with specific purposes and brands). However, the basis of its production is usually cow’s or goat’s milk (except in cases of allergy), a type of nutrient different from breast milk. See other substances found:
- Lactose;
- Sugars, such as corn syrup, maltodextrin, or fructose;
- Oilseeds (palm, canola, coconut, sunflower, and soy);
- Fatty acids (usually gotten from fish oil);
- Vitamins and minerals;
- Enzymes and amino acids;
- Probiotics.
Organic formula is a safe option and also ideal in cases where breast milk is not available.
What Types of Formulas?
If it is impossible to continue breastfeeding, you will need to opt for a formula to guarantee the nutrients the baby needs. This guidance must be prescribed by a pediatrician, who carefully assesses each case and the moment in each baby’s life.
- Premature: In general, formulas aim to facilitate digestion since, in general, body systems are not fully developed. They focus on proteins, fats, and fatty acids, seeking to help in the development of the baby’s nervous system.
- Babies up to six months – Also known as “Stage 1”, they usually have the addition of starch, sucrose, and maltodextrin, in addition to enrichment with iron and amino acids. They have added fatty acids, important substances for the development of the nervous system. After six months, the formulas are very similar, with the addition of iron – called “Stage 2”.
- Special: Indicated for children who have allergies, intolerances, or reflux. The most common formulas are: lactose-free, antireflux (they are usually thicker), hypoallergenic (for children with cow’s milk allergy), and soy-based (for those allergic to milk protein).
Conclusion
Although the organic formula may not be up to breast milk in nutritional terms, they are safe for babies as long as medical recommendations are followed. Suppose you are on the look for a reputable organic baby shop. In that case, you can browse your suitable baby food brand at Baby’s Best Food.
